Economy

Inflation is the top concern for the fifth consecutive month while some countries see worry about covid-19 rise

With recent record-high temperatures in Europe in mind, Ben Page introduces this month’s edition with reflections on whether the more urgent threat of inflation threatens to overshadow the global public’s concern about climate change. We explore this in more detail with articles on perceptions of inflation in the MENA region, and deep dives into concern about climate change in Switzerland and support for net zero policies in the UK. We also look at the perception of traditional and non-traditional media across the EU and how technology will influence the future of music.

The Hong Kong New Normal Tracking Study measures changes in attitudes and behaviour in reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic since March 2020. Highlights from February 2022 wave:

As part of its Smarter Digital City initiative, Google Hong Kong released its “Smarter Digital City - A Refreshed Look at Export” report conducted by Ipsos, illustrating how exporters in Hong Kong thrive with increased digital capabilities.

The recent rise in concern about Covid-19 following the spread of Omicron continues in 2022. Meanwhile, inflation hits record levels of concern.

What did we learn about public attitudes and behaviours? What did our research tell us about the events of the year? And how did our outlook shift?

Following a challenging 2021, people around the world are optimistic that 2022 will be a better year.

There is no consensus on what would signal the end of the pandemic. In most of the 33 countries surveyed, the majority don’t expect it’ll happen any time soon.

Latest results from the study showcase the lasting impact of Covid-19 on the Hong Kong population, in terms of everyday behaviours but also its deep financial and psychological impact.